His career - which spanned seven decades - saw him host shows such as Housewives' Choice, Juke Box Jury and Any Questions.

He was "surrounded by family" at the time of his death, according to a BBC statement.

He began working for the BBC in 1945 and became one of the original Top of the Pops presenters in 1964. He also worked as the BBC's Eurovision Song Contest commentator until 1971, when Terry Wogan took over the role.

BBC director general Tony Hall described Jacobs as "one of the great broadcast personalities".

He said: "As a young and avid viewer of Jukebox Jury, I remember him every week scoring the hits and misses.

"And I was still listening to him just last month as he fronted his show The David Jacobs Collection on Radio 2. We shall all miss him tremendously."

He won a Sony Gold Award for his outstanding contribution to radio in 1984 and was later admitted to the Sony Hall of Fame in 1995.

Following the news of his death, fellow Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball tweeted: "Dear #DavidJacobs has passed away. One of my all time favorite broadcasters. #ThankYouForTheMusic RIP dear chap @BBCRadio2"

Music presenter Bob Harris joined Ball in paying tribute to the late star. He posted: "So very sad to hear the news about David Jacobs, my friend and mentor. He gave me my first-ever mention on the radio on my 15th birthday."

The BBC has confirmed that Radio 2 will pay tribute to Jacobs with a series of special programs.